Opening Hours

Mon - Friday: 7AM - 4PM

Staff

In addition to our fabulous facilities and outstanding programming, our staff truly separates us from other providers. Our culturally diverse multidisciplinary team is made up of Ph.D. and Psy.D Licensed Psychologists, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists, Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors, Registered Nurses, and Licensed Social Workers. Under the supervision of several doctoral-level Licensed Psychologists, our mental health team is made up of numerous psychology pre-doctoral interns and master’s-level psychology practicum students. Pre-doctoral interns and practicum students meet individually with clients in our Co Occurring Disorders Programs to assess needs, establish treatment planning goals, and provide individual therapy throughout treatment and aftercare. Our Social Workers help clients secure stable housing, medical assistance, and help in obtaining additional needed resources. The level of professionalism, education, and experience of our staff truly sets us apart from other providers.

Mark Casagrande, MA, LADC

Executive Director

Mark is the Owner and Executive Director of Park Avenue Center. Having been in recovery since 1986, Mark is a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor who attended the addiction program at Minneapolis Community College (now MCTC), earned a BS in Marketing from St. Cloud State University, and earned his Master’s Degree in Counseling and Psychological Services from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. Starting with Park in 1994, Mark has had many roles including Counselor, Program Coordinator, Program Director, and eventually purchased Park in January of 2009. Mark is very active in the field of substance abuse and serves on the board of Minnesota’s largest substance abuse trade organization MARRCH where he has also served as President. He has also served on additional non-profit boards including EAGALA and Berkshire Horse Works. Mark regularly lobbies and educates state legislators in addition to working with MN DHS advocating for both clients and providers while implementing many evidence-based strategies. Mark’s passion is leading Park Avenue Center to continue to be “the solution to the broken system”.

Linda Casagrande, BA

CFO

Linda is responsible for the financial management of the company. She began her career with Park Avenue Center by spending three years in the billing office where she was responsible for implementing the current financial management software. She then returned to her prior career in retail management where she served as a district manager for a major retailer before rejoining Park Avenue Center in January 2009 as the CFO. She attended school at the University of Wisconsin-Stout and Metropolitan State University where she studied retail management and accounting.

Jennifer Hayes, LADC

Clinical Director, Women’s Program

Jennifer has been a licensed alcohol and drug counselor since 2004. She started her career at Park Avenue Center as a counselor in the women’s program. She then transitioned to a counseling role at We Care Counseling Center in St. Paul. During her time at We Care Counseling, Jennifer assisted in implementing the electronic charting system and developed a four-volume agency training manual. Jennifer returned to Park Avenue Center in 2013 as the Women’s Program Clinical Supervisor before assuming her current role as the Women’s Clinical Director. Jennifer grew up in South Minneapolis and feels her contributions make a difference within her community.

Christine Pearson, MS, LPCC, LADC

Clinical Director, Men’s Program

Christine (Chris) earned her Master’s in Community Counseling and Chemical Dependency from St. Cloud State University. She began her career after accepting a Float Counselor role in 2011 following her internship at Park Avenue Center. Chris then transitioned to a Co-occurring Counselor in the Women’s Program, and then to a Clinical Supervisor role in the Men’s Program before assuming her current position. Chris is inspired to work in this field to help clients believe in themselves so they can reach their goals.

Michelle Ruesink, BS, PHR

Director of Human Resources

Michelle has over 15 years of experience working in Human Resources. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Corrections from Minnesota State University, Mankato and obtained her Professional in Human Resources certification in 2011. Michelle joined Park Avenue Center in 2017 after working in the home health care field for several years. Michelle is passionate about working for an organization whose mission is to help others improve their lives. When she isn’t working, Michelle enjoys watching sporting events and spending time on one of Minnesota’s many lakes.

Jen Stella, BS

Director of Operations

Jen received her Associates Degree in Supervisory Management from Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College and her Bachelors of Science in Business Administration from Capella University. Prior to joining Park Avenue Center in 2016, Jen spent over 17 years focusing on process and people management at Polaris Industries. She is experienced in implementing the principles of lean and change management, and helping to achieve strategic business objectives. Jen’s passion for efficient processes and continuous improvement allow for an effective focus on client care.

Joshua Weiler, PsyD, LP

Director of Mental Health Services

Dr. Josh is a Licensed Psychologist and serves as the Director of Mental Health Services responsible for our training programs as well as the mental health clinic. Prior to his current role, Dr. Josh was the Clinical Director of our Men’s Programs. Dr. Josh obtained his Master’s Degree from the University of Wisconsin-Stout and his Psychology Doctorate from the Minnesota School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University. His professional training includes College Counseling Centers, Psychological Assessment, and Co-Occurring Disorders. In addition to his administrative duties, Dr. Weiler enjoys working to find solutions in complex systems, conducting training seminars, and supervising staff.

Birgitte Eppel MA, LMFT, LADC

Clinical Supervisor, Mental Health Services

Birgitte earned her Bachelor’s degree in Alcohol and Drug Studies from Minnesota State University and her Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. In addition to her responsibilities as Park Avenue Center, she is also an adjunct faculty at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota teaching in the Addiction Studies Graduate Certificate Program. Birgitte’s prior experience includes working as a LADC for adolescents at On-Belay House, interning at Hazelden Center for Youth and Families, and interning at Central Freedom School, a sober high school in Mankato, MN. She joined Park Avenue Center in 2013 and in her current role runs the Addiction and Co-Occurring Internship Program and supervises the couples and family programming while also providing therapy from a systemic perspective for couples, families, and individuals. Birgitte is passionate about mentoring interns and developing professionals in the field of mental health, marriage and family therapy, and chemical dependency counseling.

Michael Larsen

Maintenance Manager

Morgan Liebenow, BS, LSW, LADC

Clinical Supervisor, Men’s Program

Morgan earned her Bachelor of Science in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin – River Falls and attended Metropolitan State University to pursue her LADC. She worked as a Program Assistant at Meridian Behavioral Health and a Resource Counselor at Kenneidigh KCQ – Dakota Outreach before joining Park Avenue Center in 2015. Morgan started her career as an Intake Counselor then transitioned to a Co-occurring Opioid Counselor. Another opportunity for growth arose and Morgan became a counselor in the Complex Co-occurring Program before landing her current position as a Clinical Supervisor. In the future, she plans to return to graduate school to earn her LPCC. Morgan is passionate about providing quality client care and encouraging self-advocacy and personal growth amongst staff and clients.

Sarah Lundgren, BS, LSW

Social Work Supervisor

Sarah Lundgren obtained her Bachelor of Social Work from Metropolitan State University. Sarah has over 15 years of experience in the social work field and has worked with clients who have co-occurring disorders, developmental disabilities, and the elderly population. For four years, she was a Long-Term Care Social Worker at Providence Place prior to joining Park Avenue Center in 2012. Sarah was the first social worker hired at Park Avenue Center and was integral in developing the Social Work Department and Social Work Internship program we have today.

Amber Marko, BA, LADC

Clinical Supervisor, Women’s Program

Amber received her Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire. Prior to joining Park Avenue Center in 2015 as a Counselor, Amber worked at Youth Service Bureau and metro-area ISD 622. She has experience in educating youth and communities on various topics involving chemical health. Seeing people flourish physically and emotionally through sobriety inspires Amber to work in this field.

Rob Marshall, Psy D

Clinical Supervisor, Intake Team

Rob received his doctorate of psychology from Georgia School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University and is currently pursuing licensure as a psychologist. Rob began his pre-doctoral internship at Park Avenue Center in 2014, before transitioning to his current role in August 2015. Before moving to Minnesota, Rob worked in several treatment facilities in Georgia including Stonewall Psychological Associates, Banyan Tree Center, Ridgeview Institute and Dekalb Medical Center. Rob is particularly invested in supporting the empowerment, independence, and safety needs of clients facing discrimination due to their race, gender, sexual orientation, economic class, spiritual beliefs, and/or national origin. Rob remains inspired to do this work through continuously witnessing the resilience of people facing insurmountable obstacles. Rob’s outside hobbies include reading, hiking, traveling, photography, and writing music.

Jennifer Metzger, MA, LADC

Clinical Supervisor, Women’s Program

Jennifer began her career at Park Avenue Center as a Counselor in the Women’s Program before going back to school to pursue her Master’s Degree in Clinical Counseling from St. Mary’s University. Jennifer completed her practicum at Park with the Mental Health Team and then was hired as a Mental Health Float Counselor before landing in her current role. Prior to Park Avenue Center, Jennifer worked in outpatient treatment as a Program Counselor and Team Lead at River Ridge, Minnetonka. Jennifer is currently pursuing her LPCC licensure and has chosen to work for Park Avenue Center because it is at the forefront in MICD programming and for its passion of prioritizing the clients above anything else.

Chet Russell, AT

Information Technology Manager

Chet started at Park Avenue Center in 2015 as the IT Manager. He has two Associates Degrees from Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College (WITC) in networking and web & software development. Chet is a Cisco certified networking technician and an advisory committee member of WITC’s Information Technology Council. Chet’s passion lies in allowing technology to deliver the reliable tools necessary to our clients and staff so they can focus on delivering top client care.

Linda Santa Cruz, MS, LMFT

Mental Health Supervisor

Linda attended California Lutheran University where she obtained her Master of Science in Counseling Psychology. Linda is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and has worked in the field since 2004 with a variety of populations including children, adolescents, couples, and families/foster families. In 2005, Linda was the recipient of the Ventura County District Attorney Crime Victim’s Appreciation award. She considers her greatest strengths and skills to be her compassion, support, caring and teamwork. Prior to joining Park Avenue Center, Linda has most recently served as an Adjunct Practicum Instructor at St. Mary’s University, specialized in trauma work in the Gender Specific Program for Dakota County’s Juvenile Services program, and spent 9 years as a Clinical Supervisor for FACTS. As an MFT supervisor, Linda’s professional goals are to continue providing supervision to students and licensure candidates, teaching, and to continue developing her expertise in trauma and working with youth. She was inspired to work in the field because, “It just made sense. I belong in a healing profession and I hope that things can always get better.”

Jon Seaburg, MA, LPCC, LADC

Clinical Supervisor, Men’s Program

Jon graduated with his Masters in Clinical Psychology and Addiction Counseling from Argosy University. Jon has been working in the chemical dependency field since 2012 when he began his internship with Park Avenue Center. In 2013 he joined the team full time as a counselor and in 2017 he transitioned to his current role of Clinical Supervisor. Jon leads different efforts at Park Avenue Center including the DWI One Day Program.

Kelley Sehman, Psy D, LADC

Clinical Supervisor, Mental Health Services

Kelley earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Minnesota School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University. She has her LADC and is currently pursuing her LP. Kelley began her career at Park Avenue Center as an Intake Counselor, before transitioning to Complex Co-Occurring Counselor. She then entered a leadership position as an Assistant Clinical Supervisor before assuming her current position as a Clinical Supervisor in Mental Health Services. Kelley was instrumental in developing the Complex Co-Occurring program’s curriculum and is passionate about working with under-served clients in the community. In her free time, Kelley enjoys fishing and camping with family and friends.

Tina Schreur, RN

Supervising Registered Nurse

Tina joined Park Avenue Center in 2017 after working at On-Belay House – Anthony Louis Center, an adolescent residential treatment center. Tina obtained her nursing license in 2008 and is currently pursuing her certification in Addictions Nursing. Tina chose to work in this field because of her passion for helping those overcome addiction by offering resources, tools, and belief that they can maintain sobriety. In her free time, Tina enjoys volunteering at The Bridge for Youth which helps youth in crisis.

Angel Walker

Operations Supervisor

Angel has been with Park Avenue Center since 2012. She started in the role of Driver before being promoted to Lead Driver, then Driving Supervisor. In 2017 she was named Park Avenue Center’s Operations Supervisor overseeing the Driving and Reception departments. Angel previously worked as an Office Manager with Just in Case and a Mortgage Auditor at U.S. Bank. She works at Park Avenue Center for the clients and to give back to the community. Angel enjoys spending time with family, reading, and cooking when she is not working. She also volunteers at Big Brothers/Big Sisters in serving as a positive role model for youth.

Joanne Weber, BS

Admissions Director

Joanne has worked at Park Avenue Center since 2004. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Education from University of Minnesota and worked at Minneapolis Public Schools and Northwestern Bell before joining the team. Joanne grew the admissions department from one person to a team of four. She is focused on developing and maintaining positive relationships with the community and committed to helping clients begin treatment to pursue their journey towards recovery.

William Westberry, BS, LADC

Clinical Supervisor, Culturally Specific Programs

William has over 20 years of experience in the chemical dependency treatment field. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Addiction Studies from Metro State University. William’s previous experience includes working at House of Charity and HCMC. He worked at Park Avenue Center as a Counselor for five years before transitioned to Vallhalla Place Inc. where he started the outpatient program. William returned to Park Avenue Center in 2014 as a Clinical Supervisor leading the Culturally Specific Program and is involved with the Hennepin County Drug and DWI courts

Helen Adams, BA, LADC

Intake Counselor

Helen obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Alcohol and Drug Counseling from Metro State University. She began her career at Park Avenue Center in 2014 as an Intake Counselor. Helen plans to continue her education and pursue a master’s degree in alcohol and drug counseling. She attends church regularly and in her spare time, she enjoys volunteering at People Serving People. Helen loves being an Intake Counselor and is dedicated to helping people live successful lives.

Dieudonne (Dee) Asambang, MA, LADC

Intake Counselor

Dee attended the University of the Cumberlands in Williamsburg, KY where he obtained a Masters in Addiction Counseling and a Masters in Mental Health Counseling. Prior to joining Park, Dee worked as a Program Counselor for 6 years with Meridian Services and as an Education Assistant with Intermediate District 287 for 5 years. Dee chose this career path because he enjoys talking to people and helping them through painful periods in their life. He is passionate about helping those in need and doing his part to keep individuals and society safe. Outside of work, he volunteers as a media and sound tech with his church and enjoys studying music and film.

Tea Babic, AS, ADC-T

Chemical Health Assessor

Tea obtained her Associates of Science in Addiction Counseling from MCTC. Prior to joining Park Avenue Center as a Chemical Health Assessor, Tea completed her internship hours at Vinland specializing in working with those suffering from TBI. Tea has plans to now obtain her Bachelor’s degree and to pursue her social work licensure. Tea chose this line of work and Park Avenue Center because she is truly passionate about helping others and wants to make a difference in the life of those who are struggling with addiction. While Tea is not working or studying, she enjoys watching and researching unsolved mysteries and conspiracy theories.

Katie Beedle, MA, LADC

Lead Co-occurring Counselor, Women’s Program

Katie obtained her Masters in Psychotherapy and Co-occurring Disorders from Adler Graduate School. Katie worked as a Mental Health Counselor at South Metro Human Services for two years prior to joining Park Avenue Center in 2015. She began as an intern and then moved into the role of an Intake Counselor, before assuming her current position. Katie is currently seeking supervision towards her LPCC. She is rewarded by working with clients, setting positive examples, and seeing clients reach their goals.

Paige Blasing, MA, LADC

Complex Co-occurring Counselor, Men’s Program

Paige attended the Hazelden Graduate School of Addiction Studies to obtain her Master’s in Addiction Studies: Integrated Recovery for Co-Occurring Disorders. Paige completed her internships at Park Avenue and Wayside House before joining Park Avenue Center in her current role in 2017. Paige is passionate about the work she does and chose to work in this field because she feels compelled to help others. Paige enjoys cooking, spending time with her pup and seeing live music in her free time.

Chet Dixon, MA, LPCC, LADC

Lead Complex Co-occurring Counselor, Men’s Program

Chet obtained his Masters in Clinical Psychology and Addictions Counseling from Argosy University. He began his career at Park Avenue Center in 2013 as an intern. Upon completion of his internship he was hired as an Intake Counselor before eventually moving to his current position as Lead Counselor in the Men’s Complex Co-occurring Program. Chet has experience working with co-occurring clients with a full range of mental health conditions including personality disorders. Chet finds his job rewarding because he has the opportunity to assist others in their journey to recovery

Brandyce Edson, MA, LADC

Complex Co-occurring Counselor, Women’s Program

Brandyce earned her Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University and is currently seeking supervision to obtain her LPCC. Brandyce completed her practicums at Ramsey County Mental Health Center, Rum River Counseling Center, as well as Park Avenue Center. She then accepted a role as an Intake Counselor at Park Avenue Center in 2016 before transitioning to her current role as a Complex Co-occurring Counselor at the Women’s Program

Matt Ellis, BA, LADC

Chemical Health Assessor

Matt graduated from the University of Alabama with a Bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies and obtained an Addiction Counseling diploma from MCTC. After two chemical dependency internships with Park Avenue Center’s chemical health assessor department, Matt earned his LADC licensure and became a part of the assessor team full-time. After working in a harm reduction program for chronically homeless, active alcoholics for three years, Matt developed a passion for working with clients in this underserved population. He seeks to provide support and find proper treatment opportunities for clients based on their individual needs. Matt enjoys playing ukulele, watching Alabama football, going to music concerts, and traveling in his free time.

James Faust, BS, LADC

Intake Counselor

After a 25-year career in commercial photography and design with Dayton Hudson, Jim switched gears and found his true calling in substance abuse counseling. Jim says that is, “the ability to use my best attributes, which are written and verbal communication skills, to their fullest in serving Park Avenue Center clients in a positive, supportive and caring environment”. Following completion of his degree and internships, Jim was offered a position at Park Avenue Center, in January of 2017. He felt that Park Avenue Center was an ideal professional setting to begin and grow his counseling experience. When Jim is not working, he divides his time between the study of politics, history, psychology, being a fan of alternative pop music, and an aficionado of all things Mid-Century Modern. He is also an avid supporter of events associated with National Recovery Month along with MCTC as an alumnus.

Kaitlin Fear, BS, ADC-T

Co-Occurring Counselor, Men’s Program

Kaitlin obtained her Bachelor of Science in Alcohol and Drug Studies from Minnesota State University, Mankato. Prior to joining Park, Kaitlin interned at Cedar Ridge – Meridian Behavioral Health and worked at Wellcome Manor Family Services. Kaitlin began working at Park Avenue Center in 2017 as an Intake Counselor before transitioning to her current role as a Counselor in the Men’s program. Kaitlin was inspired to work in the field after witnessing family members and friends fight addiction. She has compassion for her clients and desires to give every client a chance to change their lifestyle and succeed in achieving their sobriety goals. In her free time, Kaitlin enjoys spending time with family and friends, watching Netflix, and playing with her two dogs and cat.

Krystle Hansen, ADC-T

Co-Occurring Counselor, Men’s Program

Krystle is currently pursuing her degree in Drug and Alcohol Counseling from Metropolitan State University, St. Paul. Krystle began working at Park Avenue Center in 2017 in her current role. Prior to Park Avenue Center, Krystle worked with the youth population as a Counselor at On Belay. Krystle was inspired to work in the field because she loves helping others and is passionate about working with those in high-risk populations. Outside of work, Krystle enjoys traveling and spending time with her loved ones.

Sebastian Hearne, ADC-T

Co-occurring Float Counselor, Men’s Program

Sebastian graduated from North Central University with a Bachelor of Science in Alcohol and Drug Counseling. Prior to joining Park Avenue Center, Sebastian interned with the Hazelden Betty Ford Center and Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge. Sebastian also volunteers with Family Means and is a board member for Next Gen. He feels it’s important to give back to the community and support mental health and well-being. His professional goals are to receive his full LADC licensure in 2018 and work towards his LPCC or LICSW license. When asked what inspires him to work in this field, Sebastian states that “I feel called to help people turn from the grip of their addictions and provide them with the opportunity for hope in a fresh start through acceptance, support, and grace.”

Kayla Hicks, MA, LADC

Co-Occurring Counselor, Women’s Program

Kayla obtained her Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University. Prior to joining Park Avenue Center as an intern, she completed an internship with Safe Haven Domestic Violence Shelter. Kayla plans to work toward her LPCC while she begins her career as an LADC. Kayla is passionate about working with underserved populations and enjoys integrating her interest in the criminal justice system into her work. In her free time, Kayla enjoys spending time with friends and family and cheering on all Minnesota sports teams.

Jessica Hinck, MS, LADC

Co-Occurring Counselor, Men’s Program

Jessica began working in the chemical dependency treatment field in 2012 before joining Park in 2017. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Criminal Justice from the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire and her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with AODA Concentration from University of Wisconsin – Stout. She has worked in a variety of roles prior to joining Park as a Counselor, with the most recent being a Behavior Intervention Specialist. She has plans of becoming a dual-diagnosis clinician working with the male population and has goals of pursuing a Ph.D. in Counseling Education to become a Clinical Director. Jessica works in this field because she wants to prove that there’s more to life than meets the eye. In her free time, Jessica enjoys going to the zoo, meal prepping, and spending time with family and friends.

Melanie Ikola, MA LAMFT

Intake Counselor

Melanie attended St. Mary’s University and graduated with a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy. Melanie completed an internship with Park Avenue Center and worked as a school-linked Family Therapist with the FACTS program prior to returning to Park Avenue as a full-time Intake Counselor. Her professional goals are to complete her LMFT and develop into a culturally responsive therapist. Melanie considers her greatest strength and skills to be compassion, building relationships, managing big emotions, creativity, and remaining open-minded. She was inspired to work in this field and at Park because she is passionate about helping underserved clients overcome barriers and strive for positive change. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, playing with her pets, painting, and restoring her 100 year old house.

Thomas Hoffman, BS, LADC

Co-Occurring Counselor, Men’s Program

Tom earned his Bachelor of Science in Psychology from St. Cloud State University and his Diploma in Addiction Counseling from MCTC. Tom has been in the field since 2014, beginning as a Youth Counselor at St. Cloud Children’s home providing trauma-informed care to clients. He then transitioned to be a CD Tech at Anthony Louis Center prior to beginning his internship at Park Avenue Center. Tom joined the Park Avenue Center team in 2016 as a Clinical Support Specialist before assuming his current role as a Counselor. Tom is passionate about empowering clients to improve their lives.

Amber Jamelske, BS, LADC

Lead Co-occurring Counselor, Men’s Program

Amber obtained her Associates degree in Addictions Counseling from MCTC in 2016 and Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire in 2010. Amber previously worked for four years at Eau Claire Academy learning creative and effective skills to work with adolescents in crisis situations. She interned at Park Avenue Center in 2015 and joined the team as a counselor in 2016. Amber chose to continue her career at Park Avenue Center because she believes in the work we do with our clients.

Sunni Massop, MS, LADC

Co-Occurring Counselor, Women’s Program

Sunni earned a Master’s in Child Development and Family Relations from East Carolina University and a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Wisconsin – Stout. Prior to joining Park Avenue Center for her MICD internship, Sunni worked at Marathon County Special Education as an Elementary Education Special Education Teacher. Once finished with her internship, she joined the team as an Intake Float Counselor, before moving into her current role. Sunni is working toward obtaining her LPCC and when she has free time enjoys traveling, playing board games and spending time with family.

Gina Meier, LADC

Co-occurring Counselor, Men’s Program

Gina earned her Bachelor of Science in Addiction Studies at Metropolitan State University and her Diploma in Addiction Counseling from MCTC. She joined the Park Avenue Center team in 2015 and is passionate about helping others make a positive difference in their lives. Gina volunteers in the community and enjoys helping clients navigate through obstacles in their path to recovery.

Melissa Mrozek, MA, LADC

Co-occurring Counselor, Women’s Program

Melissa obtained her Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy at Argosy University. Prior to her current role, Melissa was an intern at Park Avenue Center, a member of the Marriage and Family Therapy Team and a Float Counselor. Melissa is inspired to work in this field because she recognizes how important relationships matter and their influence on the individual in recovery. In her free time, Melissa enjoys spending time with her German Shepherds and figure skating. In 2007, she won the title of International Competitive Figure Skating Champion, with Team USA.

John Norwood, BS, LADC

Lead Co-occurring Counselor, Men’s Program

John obtained his Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Counseling from Crown College. John is currently in grad school at Capella University pursuing his masters in marriage and family therapy counseling. John completed his practicums at Park Avenue Center and Recovery Plus giving him exposure to adolescent and adult client populations. After his internship at Recovery Plus, John joined the Park Avenue Center team in 2016 to continue his passion in empowering clients, encouraging families, and seeing client growth.

Andrea Perla, BS, LSW

Social Worker, Men’s Program

Andrea obtained her Bachelor of Science in Social Work from St. Catherine University. After completing a year as an AmeriCorps volunteer, she obtained her License in Social Work. Prior to joining Park Avenue Center in 2015, Andrea worked as an Employment Counselor assisting families on the Minnesota Family Invest Program with workplace skills, education, childcare, and navigating life challenges. She currently works with clients who have faced homelessness obtain sober housing and other basic needs. Andrea believes she can help individuals and families manage life challenges, as well as focus on their strengths and goal setting. In her free time, she volunteers as a Big Sister and spends time with family and friends

Becky Pierce, MA, LADC

Evening Outpatient Counselor, Men’s Program

Becky has over 20 years of experience in the chemical dependency treatment field. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Human Services from Metro State University and later earned her Master’s in Human Development from St. Mary’s University. She started her career at Hazelden working in a variety of roles with the most recent being a Primary Unit Supervisor before transitioning to the Program Director at Maple Lake Recover Center for two years. Becky then made a career change working at Heartfelt Homes Inc. as the HR & Training Manager for eight years before coming to Park Avenue Center in 2011. Becky promotes a holistic view of wellness with clients. Becky has a busy life filled with dancing, singing, cooking, reading, and maintaining her entrepreneurial spirit with two small businesses.

Katie Pilquist, LADC

Evening Outpatient Counselor, Men’s Program

Katie graduated from the University of Wisconsin, River Falls with a Bachelor of Science. After an internship at Park Avenue Center, Katie obtained her LADC license and was hired to work as a full-time counselor. Katie was inspired to work in this field because of the variety of individuals she gets to meet and a passion for being able to see people change their lives. She chose to work at Park due to the wide variety of backgrounds and experiences the clients have. She considers her strengths to be her open-mindedness and client-centered focus.

Kallie Reilly, BS, LADC

Chemical Health Assessor

Kallie attended St. Cloud State University where she obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Dependency and Community Psychology. Prior to joining Park Avenue Center, Kallie worked as an Addiction Counselor at Hazelden for 2.5 years while serving as the primary handler for the therapy dog. One professional goal of Kallie’s includes continued growth in her career. She joined Park Avenue Center to help her in reaching this goal through experience working with a different client population. Kallie enjoys running, baking and crocheting during her free time.

Traci Scholtz, BS

Specialty Programs Coordinator

Traci obtained her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Baker College. She began at Park Avenue Center in 2009 as an Admissions Coordinator, before becoming Park’s Specialty Programs Coordinator. In 2015, Traci received an award from The National Society of Collegiate Scholars for her commitment to leadership and service. Traci has spent much of her time volunteering at different organizations such as Turning Point, Bolton Refuge House and Dorothy Day Center. Traci works in this field because she is passionate about helping others to realize they are capable of more than they believe. Outside of volunteering in her free time, Traci enjoys spending time with family, scrap booking, watching the Red Wings, and playing board games.

Cheryl Smith, BS, ADC-T

Co-Occurring Counselor, Culturally Specific, Men’s Program

Cheryl earned her Bachelor of Science in Addiction Studies at Metropolitan State University and an Associate of Science in Chemical Dependency from Century College. Prior to joining Park Avenue Center in 2014, Cheryl worked at Transformation House, Meridian Behavioral Health, Emma Norton’s Residence, and Health East Assisted Living. Cheryl is planning to become a licensed alcohol and drug counselor and looking forward to continuing her education towards an LMFT. Cheryl enjoys working with clients in the Men’s Culturally Specific Program as well as working in a teaching facility where she learns something new every day.

Aleda Snow, BA, LADC

Co-occurring Counselor, Culturally Specific, Men’s Program

Aleda has over 20 years of experience in the chemical dependency treatment field. She obtained a certification in Chemical Dependency Family Treatment from St. Catherine University and graduated with a Bachelor’s in Counseling from Metro State University. Aleda’s previous experience includes working at RS Eden and African American Family Services. In 2007, Aleda was recognized as the MAARCH Counselor of the Year. Aleda’s personal experiences are an important contribution to Park Avenue Center because she is an alumnus of its treatment program and can attest to clients that treatment does in fact work!

Natalie Thoresen, BA, LSW

Social Worker, Men’s Program

Natalie went to the University of St. Thomas where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work and attained her LSW. Natalie began at Park Avenue as a social work intern during her last year of undergraduate school. She thoroughly enjoyed her experience as an intern especially the opportunity to help clients and learn about the chemical dependency field. When she was offered a job after graduation, it was an easy “yes”! Natalie is passionate about helping clients access resources and advocating for affordable housing and health care for those in need of the services. Outside of work, Natalie enjoys playing piano, reading, and spending time with friends and family

Mike Veldhuis, MA

Mental Health Float

Mike attended the University of St. Thomas where he obtained his Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology. His professional goals are to earn his LADC and LPCC licensure and gain experience with a large and diverse client population. Prior to joining Park, he worked as a Psychiatric Associate with Fairview and as a Youth Care Professional with Nexus Glen Lake. Mike considers some of his greatest strengths/skills to be his experience providing Existential, Narrative, and Psychodynamic therapies. He chose to work in this field because he is passionate about promoting self-awareness and change for people searching for ways to improve their lives. In his free time, Mike enjoys playing and watching baseball and football, reading books on world history, and creative writing.

Ashley Warhol, AS, ADC-T

Co-Occurring Counselor, Men’s Program

Ashley obtained her Associates of Science in Addiction Counseling from MCTC. Ashley began working at Park Avenue Center in 2015 as an intern where she transitioned to a Group Facilitator prior to her most recent role as a Counselor. Ashley was inspired to work in the field after being in recovery herself. She has compassion towards clients and displays this in her client first mentality helping others change their lives.

Diane Wellcome, BA, LADC

Lead Group Facilitator

Diane joined the team in 2016 after obtaining her Diploma in Addiction Counseling at MCTC and Bachelor of Arts in Speech-Communication from the University of Minnesota. Diane chose to make a career change into this field due to her passion for helping others struggling with substance abuse and mental health issues. She feels it is essential to offer the best possible client experience as she is the first person the client interacts with at Park Avenue Center. Diane also enjoys volunteering with Help at your Door, a social services organization for homebound seniors.

Leah Wheeler, BA, LADC

Chemical Health Assessor

Leah received her Bachelor of Arts in Human Development and Chemical Dependency from Metro State University. She began her career at Park Avenue Center in 2010 in the billing department, then moved to Intake Counselor before assuming her current role. Leah has worked in both the men’s and women’s co-occurring disorder programs. Leah likes to help people overcome their addiction and improve their quality of life for themselves and their families

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612-871-0194

About Us

First established in 1979,
Park Avenue Center is a community based program that proudly serves
Minnesota’s less fortunate individuals in beautiful settings. Using evidence based best practices, we have maintained a reputation for the highest quality